Camping options near Sanford, Maine concentrate in the inland lake region approximately 20 miles from the Atlantic coast. The area's mixed pine-deciduous forests surround numerous ponds and small lakes with elevations averaging 250 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with most closing after Columbus Day weekend due to Maine's cooler fall temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking at Bunganut Lake: Bunganut Lake offers water access directly from Bunganut Lake Camping Area, where tent sites feature wooden decks with lake views. "The lake is beautiful, a hidden gem," reports one visitor who found the quiet setting ideal for paddling. Canoe and kayak rentals are available on-site.
Mountain biking nearby trails: The area surrounding Kennebunkport provides excellent mountain biking opportunities. "For those so inclined, there is great mountain biking either through the Tyler Preserve down to Cape Porpoise or North through the Emmitt Smith Preserve," notes a Sandy Pines Campground visitor. These natural areas offer varied terrain for riders of different skill levels.
Fall foliage viewing: The region presents excellent autumn color opportunities for those camping in September and October. "We stayed here to see the fall colors. The park is laid out very nice. The sites are nice size with gravel. They are under trees so we could watch the colors change," explains a camper who appreciated the seasonal display.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Many campgrounds provide direct water frontage on local lakes and ponds. "Small quiet campground not too far from Dover, NH. Sites are narrow but wooded. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," writes a visitor to Beaver Dam Campground.
Clean, modern facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise. "Cleanest nicest bathrooms and showers I've ever seen camping. Also fun game areas and a beautiful store which has good food too!" notes a camper. Multiple campgrounds have invested in bathroom upgrades in recent years.
Proximity to coastal attractions: Campers appreciate the convenient access to Maine's popular beach towns. "It is 9 miles from Wells Maine which is on the ocean. LOTS OF GREAT restaurants there and nearby, like Ogunquit Maine and York Maine, etc," explains a visitor who used their campground as a home base for coastal exploration.
What you should know
Site variations within campgrounds: Individual sites can vary significantly within the same property. "It is built on a hill so some sites are a bit of a walk to get to. Linda will try to get you the best/easiest site for your type of camping," notes a Bunganut Lake Camping Area visitor. Request specific site characteristics when booking.
Seasonal operation limitations: Most properties operate within a limited window. "We stayed here in Summer 2019. We had a nice time as this is a very well maintained family campground," writes one camper, but notes most amenities close after Columbus Day.
Bug preparation essential: Maine's wooded campsites can have significant insect activity. "Very buggy, but it's outside, what do you expect?" notes a visitor to Salmon Falls/Lebanon KOA who still enjoyed their stay despite the insects. Pack appropriate repellents, particularly for riverside camping.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options for various ages: Family-friendly campgrounds offer structured programs for different age groups. "This campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored," reports a visitor to Bentley's saloon and campground.
Playground and water features: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated kid-friendly recreation areas. "The playground and pool were a hit with the kids," shares one camper who found these amenities kept children entertained throughout their stay.
Tent camping considerations: Families planning tent camping should research site placement carefully. "The tent sites were a bit small, and we were a bit closer to the people in the sites on each side than we would have liked, but overall, we had a good stay," notes one camper who suggests requesting specific tent areas when booking.
Tips from RVers
Site surface variations: RV campers report varying experiences with site surfaces. "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome," shares a visitor to Old Orchard Beach Campground. Request information about site composition when booking.
Seasonal site availability: Many campgrounds offer longer-term seasonal options. "We spent May and June at this campground and really enjoyed our stay. It was a nice quiet and family oriented place," reports one RVer who took advantage of monthly rates.
Utility reliability varies: Campgrounds offer different levels of hookup reliability. "WiFi is hit and miss unsecured. Mostly miss," notes one RVer, while another mentions "Our Verizon phone and hotspot worked great as did the parks cable television." Check with campgrounds about specific connectivity needs.
